November 5, 2008

Early November

As a kid growing up in the United States, I always looked forward to Election Day. It meant my birthday was coming up. I used to believe that my birthday fell on Election Day, but now that I know how the day is selected (first Tuesday in November), I realize my birthday never could have fallen on the actual day. But I do remember anxiously looking forward to the day our country chose a President.

This is not the place to discuss the outcome of the race, but I need to mark this occasion in some manner. I'm deeply touched at the historic nature of this race. To have the all options we did as Americans in this one election was truly humbling. It makes me proud. It makes me happy that I got to be a part of the election process. And no matter whether you agree or disagree with the choice, I hope we can support our new President and move forward.

Now, on to gift giving!

Today's post I wanted to focus on gift card holders. I made one a few months back and was honestly surprised at how easy it was to make, and how cute it turned out. For this one, I took apart a pillow envelope I'd received from Bed Bath and Beyond, traced it, scored it, and then glued together. Top it off with a ribbon bow and a quick tag, I was happy with the results.

I wanted to try a few more variations on it. So I searched the DIY Channel and found this really cute hanging holder. I made my version, it didn't turn out quite like I had imagined, but you get the idea. You can print off a template if you go to the article, trace it onto your patterned paper, cut out, score the lines (i used a stylus and a mouse pad), then fold everything and glue. I have never claimed to be embellishment savvy. this is proof. :) But you get the idea. Hang it on the doorknob and you have a cute way to present a gift card or small item.

And finally, a small envelope for the gift card is really easy to create. I cut a strip of paper 3 inches by 9 inches, folded, stitched, added a button and ribbon, then inserted the card. The button makes a heavy enough closure, but you can add a little bit of repositionable adhesive if you'd like.